To revitalize the team, Zito brought in Matthew Tkachuk, a prominent veteran player, and his father Keith Tkachuk, who publicly criticized the team for being soft. Matthew took his father's comments to heart and showed his aggression in a game against the Ottawa Senators.
In the second period, Tkachuk delivered a blind-side hit that sent Alex DeBrincat tumbling to the ice. Although the hit was dangerous, Tkachuk was not penalized and DeBrincat was fortunately not seriously injured, returning to the game later.
After the hit, Tkachuk refused to engage in a fight with DeBrincat or answer to the incident, in keeping with his reputation. The referees ultimately ejected both players, leaving Tkachuk with a poor image as someone who avoids fighting, despite being the son of Keith Tkachuk, a renowned fighter during his playing career.
MATTHEW TKACHUK REFUSES TO DROP THE GLOVES WITH MUCH SMALLER PLAYER HE BLINDED EARLIER IN THE GAME
POLL | ||
8 AVRIL | 40 ANSWERS Matthew Tkachuk backs down from scrapping 5'7 Opponent Is Tkachuk the biggest pest in the NHL? | ||
Yes | 13 | 32.5 % |
No, Marchand | 16 | 40 % |
No | 11 | 27.5 % |
List of polls |